The European Traveller's Complete Las Vegas Guide
Every year, hundreds of thousands of European visitors make the trip to Las Vegas. Whether you're coming from London, Munich, Paris, Dublin, Amsterdam, Rome, or Madrid, this guide covers everything you need to know before and after you land — written specifically for the European perspective.
Before You Go
Visa and Entry
Most European Union citizens and UK nationals can visit the US under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). Apply online at least 72 hours before departure. Cost is $21 USD. Valid for two years or until your passport expires. You'll also need to complete US customs declarations on the flight.
Currency
The US uses dollars (USD). As of recent rates: 1 GBP ≈ $1.25 USD, 1 EUR ≈ $1.08 USD. Exchange currency before you leave or withdraw from ATMs in Las Vegas (avoid airport exchange booths — worst rates). Most places accept credit/debit cards, and contactless payment is widely available.
Jet Lag
Las Vegas is GMT-8 (Pacific Time). That's 8 hours behind London, 9 hours behind Berlin/Paris. You'll feel it. Tips: arrive a day early, stay hydrated on the flight, get morning sunlight to reset your clock, and book the Hollywood tour for day 2 or 3 when you've adjusted — the early morning pickup helps reset your body clock.
On the Ground
Tipping Culture — It Matters
This is the biggest culture shock for European visitors. In America, tipping is not optional — it's how service staff earn their living:
- Restaurants: 18-20% of the bill (before tax)
- Bars: $1-2 per drink
- Hotel housekeeping: $3-5 per day
- Taxi/rideshare: 15-20%
- Tour guides: $10-20 per person for a full-day tour
- Valets: $3-5 when your car is returned
Tax and Prices
Unlike Europe, prices displayed in shops and restaurants do NOT include tax. Nevada sales tax is 8.375%, so add about 8.4% to every price you see. This catches every European tourist off guard.
Portion Sizes
American portions are significantly larger than European ones. It's perfectly acceptable to share meals or take leftovers in a doggy bag. The restaurant lunch on the Vegas2Hollywood tour is generous — pace yourself.
The #1 Day Trip for European Visitors
European visitors consistently rate the Vegas2Hollywood tour as their favourite Las Vegas experience. Why? Because it combines things Europeans love — ocean beaches, culture, architectural beauty, celebrity history, and a proper sit-down meal — into a single, stress-free day. No driving on the wrong side of the road, no navigating LA traffic, no parking nightmares.
We welcome guests in multiple languages and our tour is designed with international visitors in mind: vegetarian options always available, halal options on request, WiFi on board, and USB charging for your devices.